The Best of High Point NC

Best Restaurants in High Point NC

High Point, North Carolina, is widely recognized as the Furniture Capital of the World, but in recent years it has also built a reputation as an emerging culinary destination. From chef-driven bistros to beloved Southern diners, the city offers a surprisingly diverse dining scene that caters to residents, visiting families, and furniture-market professionals alike. The following guide highlights some of the best restaurants in High Point, NC, with a focus on quality, consistency, and overall dining experience.

As you explore High Point’s food landscape, you will notice a strong emphasis on hospitality and community. Many establishments are locally owned, sourcing regional ingredients and embracing North Carolina traditions while incorporating global influences. Whether you are planning a business dinner, a casual lunch, or a special celebration, these standout restaurants provide memorable options for every occasion.

One of the most frequently recommended spots in High Point is Blue Water Grille, a polished yet approachable restaurant known for its fresh seafood and contemporary American cuisine. The menu often features dishes such as pan-seared scallops, crab cakes, and grilled salmon, complemented by thoughtfully prepared sides and seasonal specials. With its sleek interior, attentive service, and well-curated wine list, Blue Water Grille is particularly popular for business dinners, date nights, and special events. In addition, the restaurant’s emphasis on presentation and flavor balance makes it a reliable choice for guests seeking an elevated dining experience.

For those who appreciate upscale dining with a distinctly Southern touch, 98 Asian Bistro and Kepley’s Bar‑B‑Q also deserve attention, yet another standout is Chop House at Mendenhall. This classic steakhouse specializes in hand-cut steaks, premium chops, and hearty sides, all served in a warm, refined setting. Diners can expect well-marbled ribeyes, tender filets, and perfectly grilled salmon, along with traditional accompaniments such as baked potatoes and creamed spinach. The Chop House is particularly well-suited for celebrations, client meetings, or evenings when you want to linger over a multi-course meal. Its combination of professional service and consistently executed dishes has made it a long-standing favorite in the High Point area.

Transitioning from steakhouses to global flavors, 98 Asian Bistro offers a sophisticated take on Asian cuisine in the heart of High Point. The restaurant’s menu highlights Thai and Vietnamese influences, featuring dishes such as pad thai, curry, and fresh spring rolls presented with contemporary flair. The setting is stylish yet comfortable, making it a popular choice for both casual outings and more refined dinners. Moreover, the thoughtful balance of spice, texture, and freshness ensures that the food appeals to a broad range of palates, including those new to Southeast Asian flavors as well as seasoned enthusiasts.

Moving to another key part of High Point’s culinary identity, barbecue remains a beloved staple, and Kepley’s Bar‑B‑Q embodies the traditional North Carolina approach. Known for its slow-cooked pork, tangy vinegar-based sauce, and classic sides like slaw and hush puppies, Kepley’s delivers straightforward, old-fashioned comfort food. The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly, making it ideal for a casual lunch or an easygoing dinner. For visitors who want to experience authentic local flavor, Kepley’s provides a valuable taste of High Point’s culinary heritage.

No overview of High Point’s best restaurants would be complete without mentioning Tom’s Place, a long-standing institution that balances a neighborhood feel with a broad, approachable menu. Guests can expect burgers, sandwiches, and classic American entrees served in a laid-back environment. What sets Tom’s Place apart is its sense of community and reliability; many locals return regularly because they know they will receive friendly service and well-prepared comfort food. As a result, this restaurant often serves as a casual meeting point for families, colleagues, and friends.

As the city continues to grow, High Point has also embraced more contemporary, health-conscious dining options. Wraps, salads, and grain bowls have found a home alongside traditional Southern fare at several cafes and quick-service spots around town. These restaurants focus on fresh produce, lean proteins, and customizable dishes, appealing especially to professionals seeking nutritious lunches and visitors who prefer lighter meals between furniture market appointments. While these establishments may not always attract the same attention as fine-dining venues, they play a crucial role in rounding out the city’s overall food offering.

Dessert and coffee-focused venues also contribute to High Point’s evolving restaurant scene. Local bakeries and cafes, often family-run, serve artisan pastries, cakes, and specialty coffees that complement the city’s full-service restaurants. These spots are ideal for informal meetings, remote work sessions, or a quiet break from a busy day of shopping and sightseeing. By pairing locally roasted coffee with house-made desserts, they create a welcoming environment that underscores the city’s commitment to quality and authenticity.

In addition, High Point’s proximity to Greensboro and Winston‑Salem encourages creative collaboration and friendly competition among chefs and restaurateurs across the Triad region. This regional energy has led to pop-up dinners, seasonal menus, and special events that introduce residents and guests to new flavors. Consequently, many of the city’s restaurants regularly update their offerings, reflecting both local seasonal produce and broader culinary trends. This continuous evolution helps keep the dining scene dynamic and engaging for repeat visitors.

When planning where to eat in High Point, it is useful to consider location and timing. Many of the city’s best restaurants are conveniently situated near major thoroughfares, furniture showrooms, and key neighborhoods, making them easy to reach even during busy market periods. Reservations are recommended at popular spots, especially on weekends and during furniture market events, to ensure a smooth experience. By taking a little time to plan ahead, diners can enjoy the city’s top venues without feeling rushed or limited in their choices.

Ultimately, the best restaurants in High Point, NC, reflect the city’s unique character: professional yet welcoming, rooted in tradition yet open to innovation. From refined seafood at Blue Water Grille and classic steaks at Chop House at Mendenhall to the vibrant flavors of 98 Asian Bistro and the down-home comfort of Kepley’s Bar‑B‑Q, High Point offers an impressive range of choices for discerning diners. Combined with cozy neighborhood favorites, health-forward cafes, and inviting coffee shops, the city’s culinary landscape is well-positioned to continue growing alongside its reputation as an important business and tourism destination in North Carolina.

• Best Restaurants in High Point NC